First Day

It's official.  The children have gone back to school and our fall routine has been set in motion!  Both children were excited but a little nervous for their first day.  Unfortunately, opening ceremonies had to be cancelled due to (excessive) rain but they didn't seem to be too unsettled by that change of plans.

Do you know what I dread the most about school starting?  Lunches.  Every year I determine that this is going to be the year that I faithfully send the children off to school with good, healthy lunches.  And every year Grace buys lunch at school more and more and more throughout the year!  That has to end this year because Harris cannot buy lunch at school.  For their first day I sent in this cute lunch...

I thought it was super cute, but I must admit that it will not happen with any regularity for several reasons.  1.  it took too long to make  2.  it fell apart in their lunch boxes (seriously, Harris had no idea his sandwich was supposed to be a pencil!) 3.  it's a little too much wasted food for me (all those scraps of cheese and bread!)

Even though the children won't be getting "artistic" lunches all the time, I would still like to send a variety of food.  Any ideas or suggestions are welcome!

Lunch equipment

Do you know what I dreaded most about school starting? Lunch. Ok, I actually dreaded homework and missing my children the most but lunch was right up there too. Traditionally, packing a lunch has not been something I have excelled at. I vowed that this school year would be different and that I would send interesting, yummy and healthy lunches.

In order to help me fulfill this promise I have gathered some favorite things to help me out. The item I have found the most useful and helpful has been our new lunch container. Of course, I love that it cuts down on the use of plastic baggies but I also love that it gives just the right portion sizes. Plus, it's just easy to use.

I don't think that I will really be one to jump on the cute bento food wagon. I think it is adorable but I just don't see myself making the time to do it. However, I do think that these little food picks are super cute and can be used for anything! So far I'm using them for wraps and cherry tomatoes ( I purchased them on ebay). I also bought 6 inch bamboo skewers and have been sending in little kabobs (ham and cheese, etc.).

I mean who wouldn't smile if they opened up their lunch to find this giraffe looking at them?

I'm also trying to send in more little love notes in Grace's lunch. I've found several free printables online and I purchased these on Etsy. My Mom used to send me mouse stories on my napkin. Maybe I can work up to that!

I found these adorable napkins that have been a breeze to use. They are perfectly kid sized and have the cutest embroidery on them.

Does anyone have any fabulous ideas for lunches? I'd love to hear them!